With heavy hearts, we share the passing of Patrick H. Riley of Burlington, VT.
Below, a small portrait of a life that will not soon be forgotten.
Patrick spent his working life as ['Agway'] — and was, by all accounts, loved by those who knew him best.
What is taught through a parent's example outlasts what is taught through their words.
Patrick Riley, lovingly known as "Riley," "Roule," and "Barney" to those closest to him, passed away peacefully on April 29, 2026, at the age of 63, surrounded by his loved ones after complications from heart failure.
Born on April 23, 1963, in Burlington, Vermont, Patrick was the first of four children born to Jane and Harold Riley. He grew up in Colchester, Vermont, where he attended school and proudly graduated a year early through a technical program.
Patrick lived life in his own way - free-spirited, bold, and full of character. He spent many years in the printing trade, working at Essex Publishing, George Little Press, and The Offset House. Over the years, he also worked at Agway, in the tire and service center at Sears, and as a driver for Yellow Cab and Benway's. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to start Around Town Movers, and later his own limousine service, earning him the nickname "Roule Wheelman." Whether behind the wheel, scrapping or connecting with people, Patrick left an impression everywhere he went.
Outside of work, Patrick found peace and joy in fishing. Whether on lakes, streams, ponds, rivers, or especially the ocean, it was one of his greatest passions and where he felt most at home.
Above all, Patrick was a devoted father and grandfather. He is survived by his daughter, Melissa Riley, her husband David Pecor, and their children Kaydyn Pecor (his "best buddy"), and Jaynee Pecor, along with Kaydyn's partner, Hayden Hughes. He is also survived by his son, Michael Riley, his wife Bobbi Riley, and their children Silas, Catherine, and Oliver Riley. His love for his grandchildren and children was unconditional, and they brought him immense pride and joy.
Patrick is also survived by his siblings, Shawn Riley, Jennifer Loso and Michael Riley. Along with the mother of his children, Michele Fay.
He leaves behind many nieces and nephews whom he cared for deeply, including Amanda Riley and her children Hunter Robair and Maddox Hope; Sarah Couture and her partner Jeremy Driscoll, along with Carsen Atkins and Brynn Driscoll; Meghan Roy, her husband Adam Roy, and their children Teddie Rose, Rowdy, and Goldie Lou Roy; and Shelby Lemieux and her husband Andrew Lemieux; and his nephew Shawn Riley. He will also be deeply missed by many, many friends from all walks of life whose lives he touched over the years.
Riley will be remembered for his big heart and his giving nature - the kind of man who would quite literally give you the shirt off his back. That saying could have been written about someone like him. He had a way of showing up when it mattered most, offering what he could, and loving deeply in his own way. His presence left a lasting impression on all who knew him and he will be missed by many and thought of fondly for his loyalty, his generous spirit, and the deep love he had for his family and friends - especially his children and grandchildren.
Calling hours will be held on Thursday, May 7, from 5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m. at Ready Funeral Home on Shelburne Road in Burlington, Vermont. A funeral service will be held on Saturday at 11:00 a.m. at Holy Cross Church in Colchester, Vt.
Arrangements have been entrusted to the care of Ready Funeral & Cremation Service, South Chapel, 261 Shelburne Road, Burlington, VT 05401. To leave online condolences for the family please visit www.readyfuneral.com.
